Bell AH-1J SeaCobra

Aircraft Background

First flown in prototype form on September 7, 1965, and named Huey Cobra, this helicopter was first delivered to the US Army in June, 1967, and within two months the helicopter was being used operationally in Vietnam. The Marines also operated armed Hueys in Vietnam, and their interest in this helicopter resulted in 38 AH-1Gs being supplied from the US Army production line in 1969.

History

The primary missions of the Cobra are helicopter Close Air Support (CAS), escort of transport helicopters and ground convoys, armed reconnaissance, helicopter air-to-air attack, anti-shipping operations, and coordination and terminal control of fixed wing CAS, artillery, mortars, and naval gunfire. It is the only western attack helicopter with a proven air-to-air and anti-radar missile capability. The rear seat pilot is primarily responsible for maneuvering the aircraft. The front pilot controls the aircraft’s weapons systems.